Whether it’s pool decks, patios, pathways, or interior spaces, these stones offer unique aesthetics combined with strength and longevity.
Key Takeaways
- Ocean Reef tiles and Shellstone are highly sought-after limestone materials known for their fossilized textures and natural beauty.
- They are durable, versatile, and suitable for a range of applications, including patios, pool decks, indoor flooring, and wall cladding.
- Ocean Reef tiles are available in various finishes, providing options for different design preferences and functional needs.
- Citadel Stone is the exclusive global distributor of both Ocean Reef and Shellstone, offering premium, authentic products sourced from Syria.
While Shellstone has been popular for its natural beauty and fossil inclusions, Ocean Reef tiles share similar attributes, offering slightly different color tones and textures. However, both are derived from limestone formations and are often used interchangeably depending on the desired visual and functional outcomes.
This datasheet explores the properties, benefits, applications, and maintenance guidelines for Ocean Reef tiles, highlighting their advantages in both residential and commercial projects.
Key Properties of Ocean Reef Tiles
- Material Composition: Ocean Reef tiles are a type of fossilized limestone, formed naturally over thousands of years. The presence of marine fossils and shell imprints gives these tiles their characteristic appearance, which is rich in texture and visually appealing.
- Surface Finish: Ocean Reef tiles are available in various finishes, such as honed, brushed, tumbled, and polished, allowing for flexibility in how they are used. These finishes enhance the stone’s natural texture, providing a range of options for slip resistance, sheen, and overall aesthetic.
- Color Variations: The color spectrum of Ocean Reef tiles typically ranges from soft beige to pale gray, with slight variations in tone due to the natural composition of the limestone. These neutral colors blend well with a variety of design styles, making them versatile in both modern and traditional settings.
- Durability and Hardness: As a form of limestone, Ocean Reef tiles are durable and can withstand high foot traffic, weather conditions, and general wear and tear. Their density and strength make them suitable for outdoor use, such as patios, pool areas, and pathways, as well as indoor applications like flooring and wall cladding.
- Slip Resistance: Depending on the surface finish, Ocean Reef tiles can offer excellent slip resistance, especially in outdoor and pool areas where safety is paramount. The brushed and tumbled finishes are particularly effective in reducing slippage without compromising the aesthetic appeal.
- Thermal Insulation: Limestone naturally offers good thermal insulation, helping to regulate temperature in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Ocean Reef tiles remain cool underfoot, even in warmer climates, making them perfect for pool surrounds and sunny patios.
Applications of Ocean Reef Tiles
1- Outdoor Spaces:
- Patios and Walkways: Ocean Reef tiles are ideal for patios and walkways due to their durability and resistance to weathering. Their natural color palette enhances outdoor environments, blending seamlessly with gardens, stone features, and outdoor furniture.
- Pool Decks: Due to their slip-resistant properties and ability to stay cool underfoot, Ocean Reef tiles are a popular choice for pool decks. The natural texture of the stone adds both safety and beauty to poolside areas.
- Driveways and Pathways: When properly installed and maintained, Ocean Reef tiles can provide an elegant yet sturdy surface for driveways and pathways, resisting the wear and tear caused by vehicles and foot traffic.
2- Indoor Applications:
- Flooring: Ocean Reef tiles can be used for indoor flooring, creating a natural and elegant look for living spaces, kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. The smooth texture and soft hues add a timeless charm to interiors.
- Wall Cladding: In addition to flooring, Ocean Reef tiles work beautifully as wall cladding for feature walls, fireplaces, and accent areas. Their natural patterns and fossilized textures create striking visual interest.
- Bathrooms: These tiles are also popular in bathroom design, used for floors, walls, and shower surrounds, bringing the essence of natural stone into these spaces.
Installation and Maintenance of Ocean Reef Tiles
1- Installation Considerations:
- Surface Preparation: Ocean Reef tiles require a stable, well-prepared substrate before installation. Whether being laid in an outdoor patio or indoor space, it’s essential to ensure proper leveling and sealing.
- Tile Spacing: Given the natural variations in limestone, it’s important to maintain consistent spacing between tiles to allow for natural expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
- Sealing: Like most natural stones, Ocean Reef tiles benefit from sealing to enhance their resistance to stains, moisture, and dirt. Sealing also helps to maintain the stone’s natural beauty, ensuring its longevity.
2- Maintenance:
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning with mild, non-acidic detergents will help keep Ocean Reef tiles looking pristine. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone’s surface.
- Sealing Maintenance: Depending on the area of use (indoor or outdoor), it’s important to reseal the tiles periodically, especially in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas like pool decks or bathrooms.
- Repair and Restoration: Ocean Reef tiles can be easily repaired or restored if damaged. Surface scratches can be buffed out, and tiles can be replaced individually if needed, without disrupting the overall installation.
Benefits of Ocean Reef Tiles
- Natural Beauty: The unique fossil patterns and neutral color tones of Ocean Reef tiles create an organic, timeless appeal that adds value to any space.
- Versatility: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, Ocean Reef tiles can be used in a wide variety of settings, from contemporary homes to traditional landscapes.
- Durability: Limestone is known for its strength and longevity, making Ocean Reef tiles an investment in both style and performance.
- Eco-Friendly: As a natural material, Ocean Reef tiles are an eco-friendly option for sustainable building and design projects.
Citadel Stone: The Exclusive Source for Ocean Reef Tiles and Shellstone
Citadel Stone is the original and only source for genuine Ocean Reef pavers and Shellstone tiles. These premium limestone products are sourced directly from Syria, where the stone is quarried and processed under strict quality controls. Citadel Stone ensures that only the highest quality Ocean Reef and Shellstone products are distributed globally, making them the go-to provider for architects, designers, and builders seeking authentic, natural stone materials.
By choosing Citadel Stone, you’re guaranteed not only the authenticity of the materials but also the exceptional quality and customer service that comes with being the exclusive distributor of these sought-after limestone varieties.
Conclusion
Ocean Reef tiles, like their Shellstone counterparts, offer a perfect blend of aesthetics, durability, and versatility. Whether for interior or exterior use, these limestone tiles elevate the visual appeal of any space while ensuring long-lasting performance. When sourced from Citadel Stone, you’re guaranteed the highest quality materials, backed by the reputation of a company that specializes in these unique and natural stone products.
By choosing Ocean Reef tiles, you’re investing in timeless elegance and enduring functionality for your home or commercial projects.